Senate Resolution No. 1921

BY: Senator TEDISCO

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
April 30, 2026, as Animal Advocacy Day in the State
of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to believe that
all living creatures have value and to recognize and appreciate the
service, companionship, loyalty, unconditional love, and happiness
animals bring to the lives of New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 30, 2026, as Animal
Advocacy Day in the State of New York in conjunction with National
Animal Advocacy Day; and

WHEREAS, Animals are beloved and cherished members of many of our
families and play a positive role in the lives of so many of New York
State's citizens; and

WHEREAS, Pets offer companionship in more than 71 million United
States households, and studies have shown that companion animals can
provide a variety of health benefits; and

WHEREAS, Companion animals provide comfort and assistance to seniors
and people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Companion animals play an important role helping police,
fire departments, and search-and-rescue efforts to keep our citizens
safe; and

WHEREAS, Animal abuse, cruelty, and neglect result in unnecessary
pain and suffering to animals; and

WHEREAS, Violence against animals is a bridge crime that can and has
led to violence against people; and

WHEREAS, To that end, in 1999, a statewide petition drive was
initiated to help pass the landmark Buster's Law which created the
felony category of "aggravated cruelty to animals," punishable by up to
two years in prison and a $5,000 fine; prior to this bill becoming law
in New York State, animal cruelty resulted in only misdemeanor penalties
if any charges were imposed at all; and

WHEREAS, It is vital that we encourage empathy and compassion for
our companion animals and provide a voice for those who cannot speak for
themselves; and

WHEREAS, Organizations, such as Best Friends Animal Society,
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Humane World
for Animals, and the Animal Welfare Institute, have all worked
tirelessly for the well-being of animals; and

WHEREAS, National Animal Advocacy Day, often recognized on April
30th alongside Animal Cruelty Prevention Month in April, stems from
long-term efforts by these organizations to promote stronger humane laws
and protect animal welfare, serving as a day to encourage public action,
lobbying for animal rights, and recognizing the need for better
protection against cruelty; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 30, 2026, as Animal
Advocacy Day in the State of New York in conjunction with National
Animal Advocacy Day; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York, and leading animal advocacy organizations throughout New York
State.